The invention provides a novel approach to controlled delivery of biomolecules (e.g., lipids and proteins) by employing novel amphiphilic polymers that are effective delivery vehicles. These unique amphiphilic polymers may be employed as controlled delivery vehicles or tissue engineering scaffolds wherein the delivery of lipophilic or amphiphilic bioactive molecules can be achieved. An amphiphilic biodegradable polymer platform is disclosed herein for the stable encapsulation and sustained release of biomolecules, such as S1P.